Heavenly Hot Cross Buns: Raisins and Spices Melt-in-Your-Mouth

Bake them for Lent or whenever the craving hits.

Combine yeast with lukewarm water, let sit until dissolved (about 5 min), then mix for 1 min in standing mixer or large bowl.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness, cut into shapes, place on parchment-lined sheet, bake for 8-10 min until edges are golden.

Mix ingredients with dough hook on medium-high speed until combined. Add flour, spices, and orange zest, and continue mixing until dough no longer sticks to bowl.

If needed, add more flour to make a soft dough. Knead by hand on floured surface for six minutes. Add raisins and knead for two more minutes to incorporate.

Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover loosely with a damp cloth, let rise until doubled in size for an hour or two. Then, punch the dough down.

Freeze formed buns on tray, then store in freezer bag for up to 3 months. To bake, put in preheated oven, bake 5 mins longer than recipe suggests.

Make these versatile hot cross buns for a memorable Lenten holiday or sweet craving. Customize with different spices and fruit.